Three women at the top of their careers discuss how they’ve overcome challenges to thrive in their tech roles.
Are the technology industries still a boys club? How are women being supported to thrive in these traditionally male-dominated workplaces?
Well, it’s 2024, and we’re happy to report that times have definitely changed!
At least, that’s the experience of SuMon Wai, Rebecca Hopping, and Eva Hordnes, who all work at NEXTDC, an ASX 100-listed technology company.
We caught up with them to find out how the industry has evolved during their careers and what the future holds for other women hoping to follow in their footsteps.
SuMon Wai, Rebecca Hopping, and Eva Hordnes
Changing the narrative on gender bias
All the employees we spoke to agree that although there’s still a way to go to completely reverse the male-dominated reputation of data and tech, at NEXTDC, they feel fully comfortable being their true selves in the workplace:
Rebecca Hopping, Engineering Manager, Data Hall, and Telecommunications: “I’ve heard stories from friends in the industry where they faced challenges with biases and barriers to advancement, but I haven’t experienced that at NEXTDC. Within my team, there’s always been a supportive environment where my contributions are valued regardless of gender.”
SuMon Wai, Solution Architect: “Being in IT for more than 20 years, I used to feel I had to work harder and be smarter than my male colleagues to earn the same respect and the title I deserve. It’s not the case in NEXTDC; I’ve been fortunate to work alongside supportive colleagues who recognize talent and dedication regardless of gender. NEXTDC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident through initiatives like their partnership with WORK180, which not only empowers women but also ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued in the tech community.”
Eva Hordnes, Workplace Health and Safety Advisor: “Having worked as a consultant for most of my career, I’ve often had to assimilate to male-dominated environments. I’ve worked in diving, subsea construction, at wharves, etc. Working with a lot of wonderful people, but also some plain old dinosaurs! At NEXTDC, I see none of this. From my very first day, everyone has been professional and positive. We’re all encouraged to ask questions and contribute to the conversation and development of the company.”
NEXTDC actively supports diverse and inclusive hiring, and 34% of its employees are women.
Find out more about this and other company incentives and benefits.
NEXTDC encourages personal growth and career development
From flexible working to mentoring schemes, secondments, extra qualifications, and leadership training, NEXTDC is focused on enhancing the lives of all its employees – both personally and professionally.
RH: “There are so many continuous learning and development opportunities at NEXTDC, and every time I’ve taken advantage of the opportunities that have been presented to me, I’ve been rewarded. That’s a credit to NEXTDC for putting in the work to find really productive opportunities for their employees. There’s also a culture where if you voice ideas, they are valued and implemented – and I’m trusted to see the work through. It’s even one of the company’s core values – Bright Ideas. That kind of confidence in my abilities has been extremely motivating to keep taking chances, keep speaking up, and to keep growing in my role in this team.”
SMW: “As a working parent, I really value being able to work from home and the work-life balance NEXTDC supports. I can be there for bedtimes and to make lunchboxes in the morning. It makes a huge difference. It also gives me more time to look after myself better – I don’t take it for granted and use that time wisely. Today marks my 1,696 day streak of running at least 5K every single morning! It helps me keep calm and renew my energy. NEXTDC has also encouraged me to complete several professional certificates, which have helped me advance my skill sets.”
EH: “NEXTDC encourages everyone to question and actively seek answers. I love that all the books around us are available to take home and read. At our annual conference, our CEO was promoting the book Rebel Ideas (which we were all given). A colleague mentioned they were not a big reader, and our CEO immediately offered it as an audiobook or to even read it to the person himself! I was thinking to myself: this is where I want to be!”
Taking our place at the forefront of change
Tech is fast-moving and it’s exciting to be working in a company leading the way in adapting to a rapidly developing industry – but what does the future hold at NEXTDC and for women in tech?
RH: “The future looks promising! New technologies, like AI, are going to change the data center industry and all technology spaces. I hope to continue to grow, take on new challenges, and contribute to meaningful projects as NEXTDC expands internationally. I envision myself continuing to advance in my career while making a positive impact within the organization and within my team.”
SMW: “NEXTDC began in 2010 as a start-up, and it’s getting ready to be scaled up. I’d like to help it expand, becoming an Enterprise Architect and continuing to build the reliable, scalable, and robust solutions for many customers and Data Centres that NEXTDC serves.”
EH: “I hope as we expand into the world, we take our values with us. I hope to be able to travel the world, influencing positive change wherever we go.”
Women in tech: Now is your time!
The tech world is definitely a different place from a decade or two ago, and more women are finding their place not just at the table but in leadership roles across the industry. NEXTDC is passionate about being part of that change, and it’s never been a better time for women to launch their careers in tech.
RH: “The work is fascinating, and everyone is really smart. It makes me incredibly proud to be part of a company where diversity of thought (and how that relates to gender in the workplace) is understood to be a key to innovation – knowing that you won’t see out-of-the-box thinking if you aren’t bringing in those different perspectives. It reaffirms my belief in the NEXTDC values that this company wants an environment where we really strive to help each other succeed.”
SMW: “We need more women in tech! It’s a rewarding career path where there’s a lot to learn and amazing opportunities for growth. I hope sharing our experiences encourages other career-driven women into the industry.”
EH: “My one piece of advice is: Always carry your own bag. Don’t bring more than you can carry. The world is changing. Be a part of it. Change it for the better! Equal rights. Equal work. Respect and equal pay. Please do not get hung up on what was. Focus on what can be. Let’s go!”
